China is positioning itself to host a summit with US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, with the aim of aligning their meeting with the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War, as was reported on July 18.
As China prepares to commemorate this historical milestone with a grand parade in Tiananmen Square, there are mounting suggestions that this event could serve as a backdrop for a pivotal summit involving the leaders of the US, China, and Russia, The Times writes.
The anniversary, which marks the end of the war and China’s victory over Japan, has provided President Xi Jinping an opportunity to recalibrate his relationship with both Trump and Putin. This shift comes after escalating tensions with the US, over trade and geopolitical issues. However, recent trade deals between Washington and Beijing have reversed Trump’s previous hostile stance towards China, setting the stage for a potential summit in September.
Xi’s desire to host both Trump and Putin together stems from China’s unique historical position during the Second World War. As both the US and China were adversaries of Japan, Xi sees this as an opportunity to reinforce historical ties while also positioning China as a unifying force between two of the world’s most powerful leaders, The Times reports.
“Why not align Trump’s visit with the September 3 parade?” suggested Jin Canrong, a prominent Chinese commentator.
“From 1941 to 1945, China and the US were allies against Japanese militarism. If President Trump visits China and attends the parade on September 3, it would send a strong, positive signal to the world. The image of the Chinese, Russian, and American leaders standing together could be a powerful message of peace and stability,” commentator suggested.
This idea has been met with some public backing in China, as many believe that such a summit would not only honor the country’s past but also pave the way for renewed diplomatic relations between the major global powers.
Trump, having been in office during a time of strained relations between the US and both Russia and China, has expressed his disillusionment with Putin’s actions in Ukraine. However, he remains hopeful that his strong personal relationships with both Xi and Putin could bring about a resolution to ongoing tensions.
Despite setbacks, including Russia’s continued aggression, Trump’s administration has shifted its policy toward a more favorable stance on trade with China, including easing tariffs and engaging in mutually beneficial economic agreements.
The planned commemoration in Beijing comes at a politically charged moment for Xi, as China faces economic difficulties and rising political dissent at home. The war anniversary could serve as both a nationalistic rallying point and a way to distract from these domestic challenges.
Additionally, it allows Xi to reaffirm solidarity with Russia, a country that also faced significant losses during their war of aggression against Ukraine..
Wen-Ti Sung, a Taiwan-based analyst, commented, “The anniversary commemoration has become more important because it generates nationalist pride that can temporarily sweep various domestic dissent under the rug”.
“It would serve Xi well, but I think the chances of Trump accepting the invitation are slim,” analyst concluded.
Earlier, it was reported that Andrii Yermak, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, has urged Chinese leader Xi Jinping to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
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